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What are Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability Insurance is a federally established insurance program from the US government, which is funded through payroll taxation. The qualification and distribution is managed and monitored by Social Security Administration. It has been designed to deliver a supplement to income for people suffering from a physical or mental disability which restricts their ability to gain or retain employment.
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Who is eligible to receive Social Security Disability Benefits?
If you or a loved one have worked 5 of the past 10 years and are suffering from a disability, you may be qualified to receive monetary benefits from the Social Security Administration or from your local Social Security office. These benefits are referred to as Social Security disability benefits (SSDI). Depending on the situation, these disability benefits may be granted to you and/or your dependents.
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How does Social Security define Disability?
Under Social Security, disability is based on one’s inability to work. One is considered disabled if he/she cannot perform the work that s/he could before, and if he/she cannot adjust to other types of work because of her/his medical condition(s). To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, one’s disability must either last, or be expected to last, for at least a year or to result in death.
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Do I qualify for Benefits?
The first step in the Social Security application process is determining whether you are eligible to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits based on the qualification criteria and strict definition of disability provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). For detailed information on eligibility requirements and SSA definitions of disability, please contact us by completing a free disability evaluation.
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How can I apply for Benefits?
You can submit your initial stage application for Social Security benefits to the SSA online, over the phone, or in person at your local SSA office. Unfortunately, due to the tremendous volume of applications received by the SSA, denial rates at this stage of application are well over 60%. It is therefore advisable to familiarize yourself with the entire application process, organize medical records and other paperwork, and possibly even contact an attorney or disability advocate before submitting your initial application.
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What if I am denied for Benefits?
If you are denied Social Security benefits, it isn't the end of the line. The Social Security application process has several built-in levels of appeal, any of which can overturn the initial decision and give you the benefits to which you are entitled. For information on the options available to you if you are denied, and how to get help appealing your claim before the SSA, please contact us by completing a free disability evaluation.